Miles Teller took center stage on Saturday Night Live this past weekend, showcasing his versatility as the host while delivering a memorable performance that didn’t involve singing. In a comedic sketch that lampooned Donald Trump’s recent and contentious decision to demolish the East Wing of the White House, Teller humorously portrayed both Drew and Jonathan Scott from the popular home renovation series, Property Brothers.
The sketch opened with Teller’s Drew Scott introducing a new challenge of constructing a ballroom in the White House, humorously noting the Trumps’ residential history: “Donald and Melania moved into this house nine years ago. They were evicted for four years… but they moved back in.” As the skit progressed, Teller’s brothers engaged with Trump, portrayed by James Austin Johnson, and First Lady Melania Trump, played by Chloe Fineman, during a tour of the White House. The tour revealed that Trump had a “strong eye for interior design,” featuring extravagant gold urns adorning the rooms.
Trump’s over-the-top décor choices, which included a crown from his Asian trip and a reimagined Rose Garden reminiscent of an Olive Garden, added an absurd layer to the sketch. The setup took a satirical jab at Trump’s reported $300 million budget for the ballroom renovations while pointing out the former president’s amusing perspective on spending, stating, “I could build this ballroom with the bones of my enemies, and no one could stop me.”
The skit also referenced the ongoing government shutdown, which played a role in the demolition of the East Wing. In a light-hearted twist, the Property Brothers were depicted as needing to enlist Park Rangers and astronauts to aid in the renovation work due to the shutdown-related lack of staff, a humorous take on the broader complexities surrounding the project.
Trump’s controversial plans, which many view as ill-timed due to the ongoing national crisis, have drawn fierce criticism from both political figures and the public. Critics have pointed to the importance of preserving historical landmarks while accommodating modern needs. Even amidst the uproar, some hope that the renovations might lead to a revitalization that simultaneously respects history while embracing modernity.
These sketches continue SNL’s legacy of using humor to provide commentary on current political events, engaging audiences through lighthearted yet critical reflections on the absurdities of political discourse and decisions in the U.S. As audiences tune in for the comedic take, it’s a reminder of the show’s role in sparking dialogue around serious issues, blending entertainment with societal reflection. The sketch, now available for viewing, remains a testament to the power of satire in shaping conversations around contemporary politics.